What Are the Indiana Laws Regarding Dog Bites?

In Indiana, the laws concerning dog bites are quite clear. The state operates under a “strict liability” dog bite law, which means that a dog owner is liable for any injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog could be dangerous.

This law is outlined in Indiana Code § 15-20-1-3. However, there are exceptions to this rule. For instance, if the victim was provoking the dog or trespassing on the owner’s property at the time of the attack, the owner may not be held responsible.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations

Moreover, it’s important to be aware of the deadline to present a valid claim. In the state of Indiana, the statute of limitations for dog bite cases is two years. This means that a victim has two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit in the state’s civil court system.

If you fail to file your case within this time frame, you may lose your right to compensation. However, there are some exceptions to this rule that your attorney can evaluate to support your case.

What Evidence Do You Need to Prove a Dog Bite Claim in Richmond?

The process of holding dog owners accountable for a victim’s injury can be hard, especially if the responsible owner does not have insurance or refuses to negotiate a settlement. If this is your case, to prove a dog bite claim in Richmond, you’ll need to gather as much evidence as possible against the other party. This can include:

  • Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment
  • Photographs of your injuries
  • Witness statements
  • Reports from animal control or law enforcement agencies
  • Any other documentation that can help prove the dog owner’s liability

It’s also important to report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement agencies and obtain a copy of their report and collaborate to build a safer city with fewer animal attack accidents.

How a Richmond Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help You File a Dog Attack Claim

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a dog attack, the legal process to present a valid claim can be challenging. In this scenario, we can help you with:

  •  Evidence collection: A lawyer can help gather and organize the necessary evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and photographs of the injuries and the location where the incident occurred.
  •  Negotiation with insurance companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize the compensation they pay out. A lawyer can negotiate with these companies on your behalf, ensuring you receive a fair settlement.
  • Court representation: If your case goes to court, a lawyer can represent you, presenting your case in the most compelling way possible.
  • Legal guidance: Laws related to dog bites can be complex and vary from state to state. A lawyer can help you understand the laws in Indiana and how they apply to your case, such as the statute of limitations and liability laws that may apply to your case.

Do You Have a Case? Contact Us to Request a Free Consultation

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Indiana, you may be entitled to compensation with the help of a premises liability lawyer in Richmond. But how can you be sure how much are you entitled to claim? The best way to find out is to consult with a legal professional.

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we offer a free consultation where we can review your case and guide you through the legal process. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. Reach out to us today at our contact page and let’s get started on your claim.

FAQs about Dog Bite Cases in Richmond

What if the dog owner claims I provoked the dog?

In Indiana, if the dog owner can prove that you were provoking the dog at the time of the attack, they may not be held liable for your injuries. However, what constitutes “provocation” can be subjective and is often a point of contention in these cases.

Can I still claim if the dog bite occurred on public property?

Yes, you can still file a claim if the dog bite occurred on public property. In fact, you may have a stronger case if the dog bite occurred in a public place, as the owner has a responsibility to control their dog in these settings.

What compensation can I expect from a dog bite claim?

The compensation you can expect from a dog bite claim will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical treatment, whether you’ve lost income due to your injuries, and the impact of the injuries on your quality of life.

How can a lawyer help with my dog bite claim?

A lawyer can help with your dog bite claim by gathering evidence, negotiating with the dog owner’s insurance company, and representing you in court if necessary. They can also help you understand your rights and the legal process.

What happens if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?

If the dog owner doesn’t have insurance, you may still be able to pursue a claim against them. However, collecting compensation may be more difficult. A lawyer can help you explore your options in this situation and evaluate your case to determine who must pay for your damages.

Are landlords liable for dog bites that occur on their property?

In some cases, landlords can be held liable for dog bites that occur on their property, especially if they knew the dog was dangerous and didn’t take steps to protect others from the dog. However, the laws regarding landlord liability for dog bites can be complex, so it’s important to consult with a lawyer if you’ve been bitten by a dog on someone else’s property.

Our lawyers that handle these types of cases

Lee C. Christie

Lee C. Christie

Katherine M. Marshall

Katherine M. Marshall